Naseby's indoor curling rink has adopted a stopgap measure to stay open before an expected upturn in visitor numbers.
The rink is operating on reduced hours due to the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic and that was thanks to the "dedicated" efforts of staff working voluntarily alongside members of the community who had also put their hands up to help on the ice.
Maniototo Curling chairman Phil Dowling said that staff had been asked to work voluntarily to tide the operation over until the rail trail season began once again.
The staff had all agreed to this and the need for it, due to the wage subsidy ending, Mr Dowling said.
Mr Dowling said he was very appreciative of the staff and people who had answered a call on social media for volunteers.
Rink manager Ewan Kirk said the facility had strong bookings over the school holidays and was gearing up for this week’s national championships.
However, bookings were looking light beyond that, until at least the rail trail season returned.
"We’ve had a lot of great interest. We just hope that interest now converts into actual activity and future bookings."
He said a visit to the rink was a great option for groups, particularly families because the activity was suitable for people of all ages and all abilities.
"Everyone has a lot of fun. We certainly make it fun for them, we get them into the game and we teach them just enough to get them going."
